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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Rebecca Miller & Sophie Buchan

Simple coin hack to get rid of flies that has worked 'for years' during hot weather

In the last few weeks we have had some pretty hot weather with a few warnings along the way as we soak up the sun.

And while this week is looking like more of a mixed bag with rain forecast, the temperatures are still in their mid-twenties and our windows are remaining open to let in the fresh air.

However, swarms of bugs can enter in what feels like a split second after we open our windows and half our time is spent trying to direct the flies back outside.

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But luckily, fans of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch, have shared an outstanding hack that has saved their homes from being invaded by pesky flies.

Posting in the Facebook group, according to the Express, one woman asked: “What's the best thing to get rid of flies? Live near a cow farm and they are starting already."

One response told her to get a sandwich bag, some pennies and some water to deter flies. Then, hang the bag near open windows and the flies reportedly steer clear of entering because they sense danger.

The comment read: “Put a few pennies in a clear bag in water and hang it up ... (you need to change the water every now and then though). Flies and wasps think it's a wasps nest and stay away!

“I did this today, I hung it in the centre of the French doors into the conservatory. I’ve only seen one fly today, well worth a try!"

Anther advised: “Put some copper coins in a food bag with water and hang them on door frames. Works a treat, I have had no flies in my house for years !!!”

This deterrent works because flies have compound vision, which means they see things differently from how we see them. That means the flies see the bag of water multiple times at once and coupled with the pennies, it creates a prism that creates a rainbow of colours and hurts the flies' eyes.

Others suggest using fly curtains, especially on a back door and if you have an animal that likes to go inside and out meanwhile another suggested: “Fly curtains brilliant I don't get them.” Gill installed a fly curtain and said: “Old fashioned but I did this today. Helped immediately. Plus my dog can still get in and out.”

As for what an expert suggests, Walter Murphy - a pest control specialist at PriceYourJob.co.uk - says: “The best way to get rid of flies is by making sure your home is clean and free of any sugary substances, rotting meat or other waste. This will involve wiping down surfaces and emptying the bin as often as possible to prevent flies from lingering in your home.

"You can also use natural repellents, such as apple cider vinegar, to get rid of flies."

How to get rid of flies in your home?

Close the windows - and doors

These are the most common entrances to your home for flies. Keeping your home sealed is the best defence.

Keep it clean

Flies are attracted to places where there is food. Flies eat crumbs, your leftovers, and pet waste. Keep your home vacuumed and clean and animal litter fresh. Keep your bin secure with a tight-fitting lid.

Use houseplants

Some houseplants are thought to deter flies with their strong smell. This includes the likes of basil, lavender, bay leaf, mint, marigolds, and nasturtiums.

Keep lights off

Turn off lights at night where possible, as light attracts flies.

Make a natural fly trap

A dish of vinegar and soap can act as a natural fly trap. Mix the two together and leave the mixture out to kill flies.

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